DILI, 09 May 2025 (TATOLI) – In a release today, the Government of Timor-Leste expressed the strong desire of Timorese Catholics for Pope Leo to visit Timor-Leste.
“Timor-Leste expresses its desire for His Holiness Pope Leo XIV to visit our country and witness first-hand the living faith and enduring bond that unites the Timorese with the Catholic Church,” Minister of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers, Agio Pereira, said in a statement.
Timor-Leste, a nation with a deeply rooted Catholic faith, fondly remembers Pope Francis’ pastoral visit in September 2024. The Holy Father’s presence was a remarkable moment of spiritual renewal and strengthened the historical ties between the Timorese and the Holy See, bringing a message of hope, unity, and peace, with particular emphasis on the role of young people and the importance of preserving the cultural and spiritual values of the Timorese.
The visit of Saint John Paul II in 1989, during a particularly difficult time in the country’s history, also remains a vivid memory, bringing encouragement and courage to the Timorese.
During the lengthy years of occupation, the Catholic Church played a crucial role in supporting the Timorese, becoming a refuge where many found protection, spiritual strength, and the courage to resist.
Minister Pereira said: “Timor-Leste is currently evoking the inspiring example of Pope Francis, who marked his pontificate with humble leadership, closeness to the people, and firm defense of social justice. We sincerely hope Pope Leo XIV will continue this legacy of closeness to the poorest, promoting peace and dialogue between religions”.
Born in Chicago, United States, in 1955, Robert Francis Prevost is the first American Pope and the first member of the Order of Saint Augustine to assume the papacy. His career was marked by several years of pastoral mission in Peru, where he served as Bishop of Chiclayo and obtained Peruvian nationality. Pope Leo XIV is widely recognized for his commitment to social justice and the inclusion of the most vulnerable.
TATOLI
